The Supply Chain of Snickers: From Field to Chocolate Bar

1. Raw Material Acquisition: Cocoa, Peanuts, and Other Key Ingredients

The Snickers supply chain starts with obtaining the raw materials needed to produce
the chocolate bar. Cocoa, a key ingredient for the chocolate coating of Snickers, mainly
comes from West Africa, where countries like Ivory Coast and Ghana produce over
70% of the world's cocoa. Mars, Inc., the company behind Snickers, works closely with
cocoa producers to ensure an ethical and sustainable supply chain.
Mars has created programs like Cocoa for Generations to improve sustainability in
cocoa production and the living conditions of farmers. Through this program, the
company invests in farming practices that promote responsible cocoa production,
reduce deforestation, and improve cultivation methods. Mars also aims to source 100%
of its cocoa from sustainable sources by 2025.
Peanuts, another key ingredient in Snickers, are primarily grown in the United States,
especially in states like Georgia and Texas. Mars collaborates with local farmers to
ensure a steady supply of high-quality peanuts, while also promoting sustainable
agricultural practices. The peanuts used in Snickers must meet strict quality standards
because they are an essential part of the texture and flavor of the product.
Other key ingredients include sugar, milk, and palm oil, which are also sourced from
various regions around the world. Mars has responsible sourcing policies for these
ingredients, especially palm oil, where deforestation has been a concern. Mars is
committed to sourcing 100% sustainable and traceable palm oil, reducing its
environmental impact.
2. The Production Process: Turning Raw Materials into a Snickers Bar
Once the raw materials are obtained, the production process for the Snickers bar
begins in Mars’ factories. The company has several manufacturing plants around the
world, with some of the largest located in the United States and Europe.
The production process for Snickers is complex and highly automated to ensure
consistency in every bar produced. First, basic ingredients like sugar and milk are
mixed to create the base for the caramel. This caramel is cooked at specific
temperatures to achieve the right texture before being cooled and shaped. At the same
time, peanuts are roasted and salted to enhance their flavor.
A layer of nougat, made from a mix of corn syrup, egg whites, and sugar, is placed on
a base, followed by a generous layer of roasted peanuts and the prepared caramel.
The combination is then coated with a layer of melted milk chocolate, giving Snickers
its distinctive taste.
Mars uses advanced technologies in its production lines to ensure that every Snickers
bar meets the brand’s strict quality standards. Quality control at every stage is crucial,
from preparing the ingredients to the final packaging of the product. Through an
automated inspection system, factories can detect and correct any errors before
products reach the market.
3. Distribution: From Factories to Consumers
Once the Snickers bars are packaged and ready for distribution, the next stage in the
supply chain begins: logistics. Mars operates a global distribution system that allows
Snickers bars to reach consumers in over 180 countries. Mars' distribution system is
highly efficient, enabling products to arrive at their destinations quickly across the
world.
Snickers bars are transported from the factories to regional distribution centers, where
they are temporarily stored before being sent to retailers. Mars uses a combination of
land, sea, and air transportation to ensure products arrive on time and in perfect
condition. Since chocolate is sensitive to temperatures, especially during warmer
months, the logistics must include refrigeration and controlled storage systems.
Mars has also optimized its supply chain to minimize its environmental impact. The
company is working to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency at
every stage of the logistics process. This includes optimizing transport routes, using
cleaner fuels, and implementing technologies to reduce energy consumption in its
distribution centers.
4. Marketing and Consumption: From the Shelf to the Final Consumer
Once Snickers bars reach retailers, the final stage of the supply chain is consumption.
Snickers is sold through a wide variety of channels, from supermarkets and
convenience stores to online platforms. Mars' distribution strategy ensures that
products are available everywhere consumers are looking for them.
A key part of Snickers’ success in the market is its positioning as a chocolate bar that
satisfies hunger, which has been central to its marketing strategy. The slogan "You're
not you when you're hungry" is a clear example of how Mars has capitalized on the
idea that Snickers is a convenient and satisfying option for people looking for a quick
and energy-packed snack.
Product packaging also plays a crucial role in attracting consumers. Snickers uses
distinctive packaging with bold colors and recognizable typography, making it easy for
customers to spot the bar on store shelves. Mars has also adapted its products and
packaging to local preferences in different markets, offering different portion sizes and
product variations to meet various needs and tastes.
5. Commitment to Sustainability in Snickers' Supply Chain
Throughout its supply chain, Mars, Inc. has shown a growing commitment to
sustainability. In addition to its efforts to ensure more responsible cocoa production, the
company is also working to reduce its carbon footprint and improve sustainability in its
factories and logistics operations. Mars has set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and improve energy efficiency in all its facilities by 2025.
Additionally, Mars is investing in recycling and waste reduction programs. Through
initiatives like using recyclable packaging materials and reducing plastic use, the
company seeks to minimize its environmental impact and contribute to the circular
economy.
6. Conclusion: Innovation and Sustainability in Snickers’ Supply Chain
The Snickers supply chain is an example of how a global company can efficiently
manage the production and distribution of an iconic product. From sourcing key raw
materials like cocoa and peanuts to automated production in state-of-the-art factories
and global distribution, Mars has perfected a system that ensures quality, consistency,
and customer satisfaction.
Moreover, Mars' commitment to sustainability throughout its supply chain is a
testament to how large companies can operate responsibly, minimizing their
environmental impact while still meeting consumer expectations.